- Around 16 teams participated in this highly competitive tournament
- Each team included one player aged 30+ (born on or before 1994) and five players aged 35+ (born on or before 1989
- The tournament format added to the excitement, with tie-breakers decided at 29-all by the next winning rally, and group qualifications based on points and matches won
- Badminton provides physical and mental stimulation for seniors: V Parmar
NE SPORTS BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, MAY 20
Mumbai Risers bagged the coveted winner’s trophy and Rs 1.11 lakh cash prize in Gujarat’s first-ever Senior Open Team Badminton Tournament – Blackk & One Cup 2025 organized by Blackk & One Sports Foundation in collaboration with the Gujarat Badminton Association here on Sunday.
The Sports Capital of India witnessed an energetic celebration of sportsmanship and team spirit as the Blackk & One Cup 2025, a premier open team badminton tournament, was conducted on Saturday and Sunday. It was held at the Blackk & One Badminton Academy, Thaltej.
Around 16 teams participated in this highly competitive tournament. The final match was held on Sunday between Ahmedabad Rockstars and Mumbai Risers, with Mumbai Risers emerging as the champions.
With matches played under the AS30 shuttlecock standard—typically reserved for international tournaments—the event ensured top-tier gameplay quality. Each team included one player aged 30+ (born on or before 1994) and five players aged 35+ (born on or before 1989), reinforcing the message that competitive spirit knows no age. The tournament format added to the excitement, with tie-breakers decided at 29-all by the next winning rally, and group qualifications based on points and matches won.
Chief Guest Dr. K. L. N. Rao (IPS), Director General of Prisons, Gujarat, gave away the trophies and cash prizes to the winning teams.
Speaking on the occasion, Jitendra Yadav, Managing Director of Blackk & One Badminton Academy, said, “The tournament’s goal was to inspire people to believe that age should never limit performance or ambition. From young trainees to seasoned senior players aged 50 and above, the event highlighted the true essence of fitness, determination, and lifelong passion for the game.”
Badminton provides physical, mental stimulation for seniors: V Parmar
Speaking with this correspondent, V Parmar, who has been playing the game for over 22 years, said, “Badminton provides physical and mental stimulation for seniors, keeping them active both physically and mentally. The game involves quick movements, which help in improving agility, coordination, and reflexes. This helps in maintaining a healthy heart while also enhancing muscle strength and flexibility. For seniors looking to stay fit without engaging in high-impact activities, badminton offers a low-impact alternative that is gentle on the joints. The sport also enhances agility, balance, and coordination in seniors. These skills are crucial for aging adults as they help prevent falls and maintain independence. By constantly moving around the court, reaching for shots, and pivoting to return volleys, seniors can significantly improve their balance and agility while playing badminton.”
“Moreover, coordinating hand-eye movements when hitting the shuttlecock improves overall coordination skills and vision in older adults. This translates into better motor control in daily activities such as cooking or getting dressed independently. Additionally, socializing with other players during games promotes a sense of community among older adults which is essential for mental wellness,” he added.
According to Paramar, having sprouted pulses, salad, seasonal fruits, nuts, including peanuts, along with healthy foods will help the seniors fit for the game.
Scorecard
As for the final match scoreboard —Ahmedabad Rockstars won the first game with a narrow margin of 30-29, Mumbai Risers bounced back with a dominant 30-16 win in the second game, Ahmedabad Rockstars claimed the third game 30-19. With a total score of 76 for Ahmedabad Rockstars and 78 for Mumbai Risers, the latter clinched the title.
Cash prizes galore
This edition of the tournament made history in Gujarat by offering record-breaking cash prizes: ₹1,11,000 to the winner, ₹51,000 to the first runner-up, and ₹25,000 to the second runner-up. Teams showcased not just skill but also remarkable discipline, strategy, and coordination throughout the two-day event, making it a memorable occasion for players and spectators alike.
